Simon Benjamin Atas completed a work placement as a structural engineer at DS Flexhal
After completing his studies, Simon was offered a permanent position in our drawing office in Hobro.
I had an inspiring internship experience as an engineer at DS Flexhal. My time as an engineering intern in the structural engineering department at DS Flexhal was a unique opportunity to test my knowledge from university and to gain a better understanding of the construction process in its entirety.
DS Flexhal acts as a main contractor for commercial structures, including warehouse, parking and office buildings. With close collaboration with the sister companies and their associated in-house production of steel and concrete elements, DS Flexhal is a melting pot of expertise, experience and competencies.
I was surrounded by skilled structural engineers and architects
My internship took place at the head office in Hobro. Here, from day one, I was assigned a mentor, so that I could immediately dive into real and actual problems. In addition, I was surrounded by a team of skilled structural engineers and architects in the drawing office, so it was never far from any questions to good answers.
The structural engineers at DS Flexhal have the broad overview of the structures and how they work. Among other things, they determine loads, draw up structural documentation as the structural designers, coordinate with subcontractors, ensure the stability and the interfaces between structural sections, and they generally act as “firefighters.”
Helped to develop templates and tools in the drawing office
Supported by good colleagues and working conditions, during my internship I had the opportunity to work on a range of exciting and varied tasks. I got to carry out both the more “ordinary” tasks and calculation routines, but I also contributed to developing templates and tools in the department, as well as tasks of a more special nature.
For example, I designed a one-sided, 6.5 m high basement wall, which resulted in large horizontal loads. Here I was given the responsibility of investigating our options and coming up with suggestions. Among other things, I investigated the effect of fixing the basement wall, replacing sand fill with Leca pellets, introducing struts, utilising the sliding capacity in the ground slab and much more.
DS Flexhal also gave me ample opportunity to take part in construction site visits, where I saw theory and drawings being turned into reality. This practical experience gave me a better understanding of the challenges in the real world and the significance of our decisions at the office.
My work placement has made me both more skilled and more self-confident
I completed my internship period at DS Flexhal as a more skilled and more self-confident structural engineer, ready to tackle the future challenges in the construction industry. My internship gave me invaluable insight into the construction process and strengthened my professional skills in a way I could never have hoped for.
– Simon Benjamin Atas
What could YOU become at DS Flexhal?
Building constructor, civil engineer, structural engineer, architect…
DS Flexhal is a main contractor within all types of commercial construction – we are best known for constructing some of Denmark’s largest warehouse and logistics buildings. But we also build car parks, offices and headquarters, production buildings, sports halls and stadiums.
We build many square metres in a short time, and that requires a well-oiled project team. As an intern, you become part of our team and get a unique opportunity to participate in all phases of our construction projects – from calculation and design to execution and handover.
All knowledge is available in-house, and our skilled employees gladly share their knowledge so that you can also specialise. You will be attached to an experienced employee who is your mentor all the way through your work placement. Together, we find the work tasks that develop and equip you for a future in the contracting industry.
Read more about DS Flexhal on their website